Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Style
Orchestra
Singer
Author
Composer
Date
These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Mentira is a Tango written by Celedonio Flores and composed by Francisco Pracánico.
The lyrics of “Mentira” revolve around deeply felt emotions of betrayal and disillusionment in love. The narrator reflects on a past relationship where they felt deeply deceived. They viewed their partner as an ideal, almost saintly figure, which they worshipped and loved dearly. However, this image was shattered by the realization of the deceit—highlighted by the repeated exclamations of “Mentira, mentira! (Lie, lie!)”. The emotional depth of this Tango encompasses feelings of love, betrayal, disappointment, and remorseless recognition of the painful truth.
The tango employs powerful symbols to enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics. Phrases like “muñequita de trapo” (ragdoll) symbolize the fragility and artificial nature of the persona the partner projected, which the singer once revered. Furthermore, expressions like “que Dios la tenga en la gloria” (May God keep her in glory) about the lover’s mother introduce a sacred element, making the betrayal even more poignant when juxtaposed with the profanity of lies. This use of sacred symbols to heighten the profane reality of betrayal elevates the emotional intensity of the tango.
Composed in 1932, “Mentira” is situated in the historical context of post-World War I and pre-World War II, a period marked by political and social turbulence in Argentina. The 1930s in Argentina saw the rise of political factions and the beginning of military influence in politics, leading to upheaval and instability. This song could symbolically reflect the feelings of the populace, mirroring the broader societal disenchantment and betrayal by leadership, thus taking on a metaphorical role beyond personal grief and extending to societal lament.
A pivotal figure in the history of tango, Celedonio Flores was known for his vivid and emotional lyrics that often reflected the sentiments of the working class and the bohemian sectors of Buenos Aires.